DA’s Steenhuisen Slams National Dialogue as “Costly Talk Shop”

Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen has criticised the upcoming National Dialogue, calling it a “costly talk shop” that South Africa does not need. Speaking in a televised interview, Steenhuisen questioned the credibility of the process, particularly after several legacy organisations withdrew from participation.

According to Steenhuisen, the dialogue risks becoming another “top-down, one-way street” driven by the ANC to regain electoral traction rather than a genuine platform for problem-solving. He urged organisers to return to the drawing board to rebuild trust and include those who have raised concerns.

“We know what our problems are — crime, unemployment, a stagnant economy, and deep inequality,” Steenhuisen said. “What we need is an implementation plan, not another two years of talking.”

Criticism of Existing Policies

Steenhuisen singled out policies such as Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) and employment equity, arguing that they have failed to deliver economic empowerment to the majority of South Africans.
He said that after more than two decades of these policies, black unemployment has increased, inequality has worsened, and household incomes have fallen.

Undocumented Migration and Border Security

The DA leader also addressed growing public frustration over undocumented migration, calling for stronger border controls while insisting that medical care should remain accessible to anyone in need.
“No one should be taking the law into their own hands,” Steenhuisen said, referring to incidents involving the activist group Operation Dudula. “Health facilities must be managed by security services, not vigilante groups.”

Tariff Dispute with the US

On trade matters, Steenhuisen confirmed that government ministers would soon outline a plan to address tariff disputes with the United States, warning that political and geopolitical issues may be driving the tensions more than economic considerations. He emphasised the need to protect South Africa’s sovereignty while diversifying trade partnerships.

Coalition Politics

Steenhuisen defended the DA’s role in the Government of National Unity (GNU), saying the coalition was more stable after the recent budget approval. However, he made it clear that the DA would oppose any move to include the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the GNU, citing fundamental differences.

As the interview concluded, Steenhuisen said the DA would soon announce a replacement for former deputy minister Andrew Whitfield, following a review of GNU appointments.